Writing your book is one of the first steps to publication. The next several steps involve the editing process. Writing and editing require different sets of skills. Of the two, the author is far more important. Without solid editing, however, the manuscript has little chance of being read, much less published. The editor’s job is to help you make your work as readable and presentable as possible.  Think of it as changing from jeans and a t-shirt to a tuxedo or evening gown.

     Editors basically help you write your best.  We correct grammar, punctuation, and find places in your work that need a little polishing. Some writers need more help than others.  You should never send your work to an editor until you have done the best that you can by yourself and, if possible, have had other people read it.  Editors are expensive for a reason. We’ve spent years learning our profession.  Most of us (including me) are published authors as well. 

     Authors require different kinds of editors. Experienced writers may need just a second pair of eyes to catch small mistakes (copyediting). Line editors catch the grammar and spelling errors and may do some revising on a line-by-line basis. Developmental editors are for authors who need some serious assistance.  These editors give advice on structure and guidance on format while working very closely with the author.  Proof readers are the people who read your manuscript one final time before it is actually published to make sure every error has been corrected.